Korean War Origins

Flashcards covering the geographical context, historical conflicts, and division of Korea following World War II.

Geographical Context of Korea

The Korean peninsula is surrounded by China, the Soviet Union, and Japan, making it a site of historically significant conflicts.

First Sino-Japanese War & Russo-Japanese War

Conflicts fought over the status of Korea, leading to Japanese control from 1906 to 1945.

Japanese Occupation of Korea

From 1906 to 1945, Japan controlled Korea, suppressing Korean customs and language.

Post-World War II Division of Korea

Following Japan's defeat in 1945, Korea was temporarily divided at the 38th parallel due to Yalta Conference discussions.

38th Parallel

The line at which Soviet troops halted in Korea after Japan's surrender, leading to the division of the peninsula.

UN Proposal for Unified Korea

The United Nations proposed elections for a unified Korea, but the Soviet Union rejected this plan.

North Korea

Established as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea under Kim Il Sung, a communist government trained and equipped by the Soviet Union.

South Korea

Established as the Republic of Korea under Syngman Rhee, an anti-communist leader viewed as authoritarian by some.

Kim Il Sung

Leader of North Korea, head of the communist government trained and equipped by the Soviet Union.

Syngman Rhee

Leader of South Korea, an anti-communist leader sometimes viewed as authoritarian.